Rebuilding a Rolls-Royce Corniche | A/C & Interior Upgrade
A Refreshing Start: The A/C Upgrade
Classic Obsession continues to document the restoration journey of Gary Maver's beloved Rolls-Royce Corniche in another detailed video tutorial we are proud to support! In this installment, Gary opens the video by discussing the importance of having a well-functioning air conditioning system in any car. For his Rolls-Royce Corniche, he's chosen to upgrade the existing system with a new A/C compressor upgrade kit and a suction throttle valve kit sourced from IntroCar.
Unpacking the Upgrade Kit
Beginning with a ventilation system upgrade, Gary opts for a fresh, more efficient setup. The original 50-year-old system had served him well, but a new kit from IntroCar, including a high-performing Air Conditioning Compressor Upgrade Kit and a Suction Throttle Valve Kit, provides a timely revamp. The kit is comprehensive and user-friendly, with an array of O-rings, valves, a receiver dryer, and more to allow for a smooth installation process. Gary demonstrates how to unpack the kit and what to look for in each component.
Installation Time: Getting Under the Hood
Here, Gary demonstrates the installation process for the A/C compressor and the dryer. He shares tips and tricks, such as using a hubcap tool for tightening the belt. This section is a practical guide on how to get the job done properly and safely.
Car History and Comparisons: 1985 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible
Gary then takes a break from the upgrade process to visit a friend, Dr Malcolm Frazer Cox, and checks out his 1985 Rolls-Royce Corniche convertible. The segment offers a comparison between the two cars, their systems, and the specific changes made to adapt the newer models.
Aesthetic Touches: Interior Upgrade
Not just content with upgrading the air conditioning system, Gary also sets out to refresh the interior of his Rolls-Royce Corniche. This includes refinishing the wood and recolorizing the seats. This portion of the video provides valuable information on restoring and maintaining the luxurious interiors of these classic cars.
Tools and Tips for Interior Upgrade
The restoration of a classic car interior can be a daunting task. In this section, Gary explains his process and shares his trusted tools and products for the job. This includes tips on cleaning and prepping the leather before recolorization, as well as instructions on how to apply the paint and feed the leather for a top-notch finish.
Window Works: Reviving the Rear Windows
The final part of the upgrade process in this video involves the rear windows of the Corniche. Often overlooked, the windows can become sticky or dysfunctional due to lack of use. Gary explains how to strip the mechanisms, clean the tracks, and reassemble for smooth operation.
It's all About the Parts!
Gary' restorations are supported by IntroCar, the International Rolls-Royce and Bentley Parts Specialists: https://www.introcar.com.
Used in the video are the following kits:
CD6687: Suction Throttle Valve Kit: https://www.introcar.com/kit-suction-throttle-valv-cd6687
UE43934KT1 Air Conditioning Compressor upgrade kit: https://www.introcar.com/air-conditioning-compressor-upgrade-kit-ue43934kt1
For all your Air Conditioning & Heating parts visit IntroCar.com and filter by your specific Rolls-Royce or Bentley model to see specific parts for your car. Use code “MAVERS” for site wide discount on Rolls-Royce and Bentley parts at IntroCar.com.
AIR CONDITIONING COMPRESSOR UPGRADE KIT (UE43934KT1)
This bundle provides you with all the components necessary to change your compressor from the original Harrison A6 compressor. Lightweight, and using lower power, this modern design features teflon coated pistons for reduced noise, improved reliability and lower fuel consumption.
The bundle includes:
- UE43934NF Upgraded A6 Replacement Compressor
- UD11868 Receiver Drier
- RH14155 Expansion Valve
- Oils, all seals and o-rings
- High/low Pressure Switch
- Pigtail loom
SUCTION THROTTLE VALVE KIT (CD6687)
CD6687 is an electronic modification kit to replace the original suction throttling valve UD11429. It works by blanking the original valve (which is left in situ) and replacing it with an electronic switching unit.
If your original valve is sound, you can replace just the diaphagm CD4900 - available here.
14 June 2023
